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Nick Barnard
Matthew-Walker: A Bad Night in Los Angeles (SOMM Recordings)
Engaging and wide-ranging music played with style and conviction [NB]
Sutermeister: Orchestral Works Vol. 2 (Toccata Classics)
First recordings of impressive song cycles, authoritatively performed [NB]
Chants nostalgiques (B Records)
A well programmed and well performed recital of French song from La Belle Époque [NB]
Schönberg, Berg: Transfigurations (Alpha Classics)
Intelligently programmed and well played key works of the Second Viennese School [NB]
Mahler: Symphony 2 (INAEM)
The premiere recording of a skilful reduced orchestration of practical value in the concert hall but not for home listening [NB]
Howells: Piano Music Vol. 2 (Naxos)
An important survey played with skill, insight and care [NB]
Arnold: Orchestral Works (Chandos)
A superb overview of Arnold’s music from light to dark with a definitive concerto performance [NB]
Balakirev: Orchestral Works (MDG)
Attractive but undemanding scores performed with care and well recorded [NB]
Rauchenecker: Symphony No 1 (CPO)
Forgotten works by a forgotten composer may not be masterpieces but certainly worth a listen [NB]
Mayer: Symphonies Nos 3 and 7 (CPO)
Two little-known symphonies prove to be interesting but not essential listening [NB]
Pianos & Orchestra (Naxos)
A unique programme very well played and recorded but of variable musical value [NB]
de Hartmann: Orchestral Works (Toccata)
Fascinating music written on an epic scale played with skill and conviction – an exciting discovery [NB]
Milford: Organ Works (Priory)
A very valuable survey establishing the quality and beauty of Milford’s sensitive compositions [NB]
Baines: Pictures of Light (Divine Art)
Baines’ piano music always impresses and is well performed here, the songs less so [NB]
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